The Tinkerman Cometh? No Way

Not sure what the reports today are all about but after the Villa board have publicly backed David O'Leary to remain as manager and Doug has taken 'assurances' that last season was a 'one off', why are we being linked to former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri?

Why, just because he says that he might be set to return to England, do the press think he is coming to Villa?

Marseille are apparently interested in Ranieri who says 'I want a solution for this week only as a matter of time. The teams need time for the signing of players and it is not possible to arrive last in this race.'

The press asked him about apparent links to Aston Villa and he replied 'I am a professional of football open to all options.'

But surely, if we are to believe Dougy boy and his merry men, there are no options at Aston Villa in regards to a new manager?

Maybe someone else can explain why the speculation is continuing, is O'Leary about to walk? On a contract worth around £1.8million a season I think not. Is Doug about to take decisive action? After backing O'Leary why would he do a u-turn? And would Ranieri really be able to do anything at a club where the manager is being forced to sell the very few players it has before bringing in new players?

Surely Ranieri would need a bigger contract than the current managers over-inflated agreement? Plus nearly £2m to rid us of O'Leary? Bizarre indeed! Can't see O'Leary walking...why would he when he's on such a cushy number??

How cruel these press people are to raise our expectations that anything is happening at villa park...ever. I can just see it now, so Claudio how do you plan to re-build the team...well with the money i get from the sale of hendrie and de la cruz i should be able to buy james milners left thigh.